Become a Foster


Help us save lives by providing a temporary, loving and restful retreat for animals in need. 

We provide all of the supplies, food and medical attention, so there is no cost to you as a foster parent… all you provide is love!

What do Fosters care for? 
Pregnant or nursing mothers

Animals that are too young for adoption

Animals who require post-surgery recovery care

Animals who do not adjust well to the shelter 

How does Foster Care work? 

1. Fosters are contacted when there is an animal in need.
2. Fosters come to the shelter to pick up the foster animal to take home.
  • Fosters will receive information about the animal's condition and needs, and given appropriate supplies.
  •  An approximate timeline of how long an animal will be with them is discussed,  with an understanding this may vary depending on the animal's needs.
3.  The foster gives a few weeks of TLC! 
4. The foster returns the animal to the SFAHS, where the staff will complete the final steps to prepare the animal for adoption. 


Fosters Need to Know: 
  • foster animals should be kept separate from your own pets, as there is a chance that germs can spread. Please have a separate bathroom, bedroom, or area available for fosters. 
  • Fosters should live within 60 minutes of the shelter, Fosters need to bring back the pets every 2 weeks for vaccinations.
  • No prior medical knowledge is required, but experience with giving pets medications is always a plus! 
  • Some animals, even with the highest level of care,  may not thrive. We ask those who apply to be prepared that it may end in heartache. 

Fostering is an immensely rewarding experience. It changes animals' lives in a very direct way. Your act of kindness is repaid in rewards that are beyond words.

If you are interested in becoming a foster,  submit the application below.   * Please allow 5-7 Business Days for processing. 

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or recently had a baby and wish to foster cats, please talk to your doctor first due to the risk of toxoplasmosis. 

Apply Here